BACKGROUND: Acoustic signals play a critical role in mate choice, species recognition, communication, territoriality, predator escape and prey selection. Bark beetles, which are significant disturbance agents of forests, produce a variety of acoustic signals. RESULTS: A bioacoustic approach to reducing bark beetle reproduction within wood tissues was explored. Playback of modified biological sounds reduced beetle reproductive output, tunneling distance and adult survival. CONCLUSION: The targeted use of biologically relevant sounds disrupts insect behaviors and could be a species-specific, environmentally friendly method of insect management.
BACKGROUND: Acoustic signals play a critical role in mate choice, species recognition, communication, territoriality, predator escape and prey selection. Bark beetles, which are significant disturbance agents of forests, produce a variety of acoustic signals. RESULTS: A bioacoustic approach to reducing bark beetle reproduction within wood tissues was explored. Playback of modified biological sounds reduced beetle reproductive output, tunneling distance and adult survival. CONCLUSION: The targeted use of biologically relevant sounds disrupts insect behaviors and could be a species-specific, environmentally friendly method of insect management.
Authors: Nicholas C Aflitto; Richard W Hofstetter; Reagan McGuire; David D Dunn; Kristen A Potter Journal: J Vis Exp Date: 2014-11-16 Impact factor: 1.355